Leadership Transition at Rank Group: Richard Harris Steps Into Top Role as O'Reilly Concludes Tenure

London-based gaming service provider Rank Group Plc is undergoing a significant management shift. The company’s Board has designated Chief Financial Officer Richard Harris to assume interim leadership responsibilities starting January 30, following the retirement of John O’Reilly from the chief executive position on January 29.

Harris Takes the Helm with Extensive Finance Background

Richard Harris brings considerable experience to the interim CEO role. Having joined Rank’s Board in May 2022 as Chief Financial Officer, he has served as an Executive Director throughout his tenure. His professional trajectory includes senior finance roles at Foxtons Group Plc, where he served as CFO, alongside earlier positions at both Laird Plc and the retail giant Marks and Spencer Plc. This diverse background across multiple sectors positions him to navigate the company’s immediate operations during the transition period.

O’Reilly’s Seven-Year Leadership Era

O’Reilly, who took the helm in April 2018, will maintain an advisory capacity through the conclusion of the 2025/26 financial year. John Ott, Chair of Rank Group plc, reflected on the departing executive’s impact: “His command of the gambling sector, operational excellence, and decades of contribution to the betting and gaming industry have enabled Rank to establish a strong directional foundation.” The leadership change marks the conclusion of O’Reilly’s tenure while recognizing the strategic groundwork he has laid.

Search for Permanent Leadership

The Board has initiated a formal recruitment process to secure a permanent Chief Executive Officer. The interim arrangement under Richard Harris provides continuity during this critical search phase, ensuring operational stability while the organization identifies its next long-term leader.